Complete our online self-audit tool to find out how much water you are using and get helpful tips on how to reduce your consumption. Register with us to qualify for a free in-home consultation if your water use is above 240 litres per person per day. See if you can get down to 165 litres per person per day with our help.

The Toilet Replacement Program has ended. If you purchased an approved toilet prior to July 1, 2014 and have yet to apply for the rebate, you must do so before December 31, 2014.

Outdoor water conservation

During summer months, water use can increase by up to 50 per cent. Learn ways to use less water for outdoor activities. Click on any of the following topics for more information:

Water Conservation bylaw:

In effect from May 31 to Sept. 30. By following the Region's Water Conservation Bylaw 07-069 (and amendments), which limit outdoor water use to specific days and times, you help to reduce peak water use and limit the risk of an outdoor watering ban.

Rain Harvesting

Rainwater collection using barrels and harvesting tanks is a great way to save water. Check with local retailers for options available. Also check with your city public works department to see if you qualify for a storm sewer surcharge credit if you are currently using rain barrels.

Rain Barrel Distribution

April 28, 2012 marked the Region's last single-day rain barrel sale. Over the 12-year program, nearly 50,000 rain barrels were distributed to the community. Stay tuned to this site for new rainwater harvesting programming from the Region in the future. The Region of Waterloo may soon be offering incentives for large rainwater collection tanks.

Water Efficiency Master Plan 2015-2025

Toilet Replacement Program:

The Region of Waterloo's Toilet Replacement Program ended on June 30, 2014.

If you purchased a Water Sense-approved toilet prior to July 1, 2014 and meet the program qualifications, the Region will process your rebate until December 31,2014. Receipts and plumber invoices must be dated before July 1, 2014.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the program over the last 20 years.

If you purchased an approved toilet before July 1, 2014 but have yet to apply for the rebate, please see below for details.

The Water Efficiency Excellence Award has been presented annually since 2009 to a local business who completed an exemplary water conservation project. See past winners.

Water softeners

Residents of Waterloo Region tend to use water softeners since we get most of our water from the ground where the hardness can clog up pipes and harm appliances over time. But not all water softeners are the same and some use much more water and salt to remove hardness than others do. The Region of Waterloo and the City of Guelph worked together to test various softeners to rate how much salt and water they use to do their job.

Community & schools

To encourage conservation, the Region offers funding to local cities and townships. We also prepare educational material for teachers, environmental groups and others interested in learning more about water.

Cities & Townships: funding is provided for a water distribution system leak program.

Educational resources: Fun, water-related activities for children and free materials adapted for different age groups to help teachers and environmental groups discuss water protection and conservation are available at no cost. For more information, visit our Teacher Resources page.